Welcome home

Students back on campus, a slight cooling of the days and preparations kicking into high gear  it must be time for Homecoming.

A young girl twirls a Spartan pom-pom at last year's Homecoming.

Homecoming 2011 kicks off on Monday with a cake decorating contest and music in Taylor Garden in honor of Founders Day. From there, the week of festivities continues with a Wednesday-night comedy show, the dedication of the new School of Education building on Thursday, several athletic games on Friday and finally leading to the big all-day party on Saturday.

Make plans to come out to the Children's Festival and Spartan Village on Kaplan Commons starting at 11 a.m. on Saturday. Kids can play on inflatables while parents enjoy live bands, followed by a parade and the coronation of the new Homecoming king and queen. Then cheer on the men's soccer team as they face off against Gardner-Webb.

Throughout the day, food and drinks will be available for purchase. All events are free and open to the public so bring a big group to enjoy the day.

Homecoming promises to be jam-packed. Check out the list below for a sampling of events going on next week: